SMART™ Saddle Care

SMART™ Saddles should be stored either on a smooth round surface, such as the Stubbs Saddle Mate or, ideally, on a narrow, rounded saddle pole that sits through the gullet.

Store your SMART™ saddle and any accessories in a dry place away from damp and extreme temperatures.

It is important that you do not store your SMART™ saddle on metal racks or with items placed on top. To prevent marking or other damage, avoid saddle brackets that support the saddle on the soft underside panels

All SMARTTM saddles from SMART Saddles come with a fleece-lined SMART™ Deluxe Saddle Cover; the water-resistant shell and adjustable elastic trim ensure your saddle is protected from dust, dirt and scratches when not in use.

Leather is a natural material and needs to be protected from drying out and cracking. Environmental factors, such as exposure to sunlight, wind and rain can cause the leather to lose some of its natural properties. It is therefore important to take steps to maintain leather in good condition in order to optimise performance and increase its longevity.

Where available, SMART Saddles recommends using a leather soap & conditioner to not only keep your SMART™ saddle clean and supple, but to protect it from the elements and maintain peak condition. Use regularly to soften new leather, helping it to “wear in”. Continued use will maintain condition and appearance.

On the seat and base panels where soft hide is used, apply conditioner sparingly, and only enough to remove any dirt before buffing to a shine. SMART™ saddle skirts and saddle flaps are made using a pre-oiled leather - it is necessary to lightly top-up these parts with oil occasionally. Black leather is more susceptible to changes to the hue/colour over time as it has to be dyed to give its appearance; this is normal and should be expected from any dyed leather product. The tannery, which supplies the leather, has issued some guidance on maintaining the leather of your new SMART™ saddle over time:

• Clean the leather with a soft brush to remove the heavy dirt, then use a small amount of baby bar soap, grated into a bowl of warm water, on a damp cloth
• Follow-up with neatsfoot oil wiped on and off

Top tips to maintain your SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad for optimal use and longevity.

Your SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad is made from natural materials and, whilst it is hard wearing, some special care will keep it working optimally.

1. Store with the sheepskin side up to air-dry between uses.

2. When dry, brush regularly to remove mud/sweat/dust/hair to avoid the need for frequent washing. Do not allow hard or flat areas to develop.

3. Machine wash only, use a maximum 30 degrees cycle and a specialist Sheepskin detergent to preserve the hide; maintaining its suppleness whilst conditioning & strengthening the fibres and preventing them drying out.

4. To dry: Lay flat, wool side up, pull into shape and air-dry.

5. Keep your SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad looking as good as new by brushing it out after washing and drying; this will fluff up the wool, helping to retain its airflow and cushioning properties.

6. When not in use, the SMART™ Sheepskin Half Pad is best stored clean and dry in a sealed container to prevent damage.

It is imperative that breastgirths are not attached to the long girth straps as this can damage them. All SMART™ Jump and Multi-discipline saddles are fitted with knee D-rings fixed to the body of the saddle for the purpose of fitting the SMART X-over Breastgirth or other accessories. Knee D-rings can be retro-fitted to other SMARTTM saddle models on request.

Professionals Choice Wool-lined Girth - care guidance

The shearling girth liner is a natural material made from lambskin and needs to be cared for prevent damage to the hide or wool and ensure longevity of your girth.

Maintain condition by following the below steps for good practice:

1. Take care to dry out and remove dirt after every ride

2. Brush and air-dry between use

3. Use cool water and a damp cloth if needed

4. Hand wash with a mild soap only if necessary, avoid soaking to allow to dry properly

5. Make sure that the lambskin is completely dry before using it again

Note: the liner can be easily removed for thorough cleaning